Category Archives: Local Faces

Local author, descendent of Sojourner Truth, creates children’s book detailing ancestor’s iconic life

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Cory Mcliechey, a descendent of Sojourner Truth, keeps his family’s legacy thriving with his recently released children’s book, “Keeping the Truth Alive.” (Supplied)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

Cory P. Mcliechey, a 5th generation grandson to iconic historical figure Sojourner Truth, keeps his family’s legacy thriving with his recently released children’s book, “Keeping the Truth Alive.”

In Mcliechey’s debut tale, he strives to educate today’s youth about a historical woman and the trials she endured.

The cover of Cory Mcliechey’s recently released children’s book about Sojourner, “Keeping the Truth Alive.” (Supplied)

“Keeping the Truth Alive” contains colorful illustrations that Mcliechey himself designed and created, captivating readers as they learn about a heroine who stood against her oppressors and fought against inequality and racism, providing greatness to America despite the obstacles Sojourner Truth experienced.

Having recently lost his parents, Mcliechey told WKTV that he felt driven to finish the book as a way to keep his familial legacy alive.

“I dedicated it to the memory of my parents whom me and my siblings had to bury earlier this year,” Mcliechey, a Grand Rapids resident, said to WKTV “That was my motivation in getting the book done.”

Book an extension of community work

Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, Mcliechey has been a community advocate and activist for many years, “fighting for equality and justice,” he said.

Cory Mcliechey’s Top Notch Kids community program aims to change the narrative of the gun by providing real life opportunities to rejuvenate communities using the “GUNS” of home improvement — caulk guns, staple, guns, nail guns, and paint guns. (Supplied)

One of the goals he hopes to accomplish through his activism is helping people realize that, “Throughout all of the ‘isms,’ such as racism, the different hues and colors of people are a reflection of God’s majesty. Don’t get it mixed up with how we view it as humans.”

Mcliechey paused, then repeated, “Different hues, but human.”

Mcliechey has put action to his words, founding a non-profit organization, Descendants of the Truth, whose sole agenda is to educate youth on their history while teaching them life skills.

Top Notch Kids is one program among many under the umbrella of Descendants of the Truth. Designed to encourage and inspire youth to help revitalize their neighborhoods, this movement provides a fun and safe alternative to the culture of violence so prevalent in today’s world, he said.

(Supplied)

Top Notch Kids aims to change the narrative of the gun by providing real life opportunities to rejuvenate communities using the “GUNS” of home improvement, such as caulk guns, staple, guns, nail guns, and paint guns. This not only helps them take part in their community, it allows children to attain a valuable skill to help with career readiness.

The motto of Top Notch Kids emphasizes the objective: “We don’t kill with guns, we build with guns.”

Book part of series, documentary in work

When asked about his plans for the future, Mcliechey said that he intends to continue Sojourner Truth’s story as a series.

“I want to continue with Sojourner Truth’s story because there is so much to know about her. This (“Keeping the Truth Alive”) is just a small glimpse of what she’s done for society and America,” Mcliechey said.

The author is also preparing to create a Top Notch Kids children’s book that focuses more on current issues versus history. The main objective of the new work is stressing safety, improvement of self and community, and to guide children toward helping their community.

Cory Mcliechey’s artwork has gained admirers such as American feminist journalist and social-political activist Gloria Steinem. (Supplied)

A more immediate work-in-progress is a documentary on Sojourner Truth’s journey from enslavement to activism and advocacy.

Mcliechey has been working closely with Lateef Calloway, founder of the Phoeion Group LLC (dba Calliwood Productions LLC), and American feminist journalist and social-political activist Gloria Steinem, to showcase how Sojourner Truth’s teachings impacted Truth’s descendants’ individual lives and their views on civil rights, human rights, and women’s rights.

In fact, it was while working with Calloway that Mcliechey’s artistic side reignited.

“I’ve always been an artist,” Mcliechey said, “but it had become dormant. Lateef reignited my passion for art.”

Mcliechey attributes his ability to create the illustrations for “Keeping the Truth Alive” to Calloway and his mentorship.

Calloway also encouraged Mcliechey to design a painting for Steinem. As a way to draw attention to issues of women today and continue Gloria’s legacy, Mcliechey produced a painting of an African Goddess, featuring 24-Karat gold leaf imported from Thailand, which is now hanging in Steinem’s brownstone.

To order a copy of “Keeping the Truth Alive” by Cory P. Mcliechey, visit here.

To learn about the separate Sojourner Truth Memorial currently underway to honor the American icon, visit here.

Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum, 2021 General Election: Kentwood City Commissioner races

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Election, Going Local, Local Faces, Local History, Politics, Upcoming Events, We The People, ,

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. Among them were the City of Kentwood City Commission At-large, Ward 1 and Ward 2 candidate forums. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.

The At-large commission seat, one of two at-large seats, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. Kentwood’s Ward 1, which also has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9, roughly the southwest areas of the city. Ward 2, which also has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.

The non-partisan candidates for the At-large seat are incumbent Commissioner Betsy Artz and candidate Leonica Riley Erwin; candidates for the Ward 1 seat are Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson (this is the seat currently held by Commissioner Emily Bridson, who is running for mayor); and candidates for Ward 2 are Jessica Ann Tyson and Dan VanderMolen (this is the seat currently held by Commissioner Tom McKelvey).

Note: Commissioner Artz and Mr. VanderMolen were not able to attend their respective forums.

To view the on-demand video replays of the forums, visit the following links:

City of Kentwood Commissioner At-large forum.

City of Kentwood Ward 1 forum.

City of Kentwood Ward 2 forum.

The City of Kentwood City Commissioner candidate forums will air on WKTV cable television, Government 26. See the initial schedule of days and times below. Visit here for a WKTV Weekly Schedule of all programs.

They are also available on-demand at WKTVLive.org.

 

For more information on the candidates in the City of Kentwood City Commission elections, see these WKTV Journal stories on our We The People videos of the race: Commissioner At-large seat, Commissioner Ward 1 seat, Commissioner Ward 2 seat.

Initial schedule for commissioner forums on WKTV Government 26. The will continue airing the following week with times TBD.

Kentwood Commission At Large: Tuesday, Oct. 12 at 6:30 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 15 at 9:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. 16 at 2:30 p.m.

Kentwood Commission Ward 1: Wednesday, Oct. 13 at 8:15 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 15 at 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. 16 at 1:30 p.m.

Kentwood Commission Ward 2: Wednesday, Oct. 13 at 9:05 p.m.; Thursday, Oct. 14 at 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. 16 at 1 p.m.

Improving Godwin Heights ready for challenge, but confident, entering Kelloggsville rivalry game

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports,
As the Wolverines prepare for the annual Kelloggsville rivalry game, 1st-year Godwin Heights football head coach Sydeon Harvey talks with WKTV about his young team’ s progress this year — what has worked (his senior captains) and what do they need to get better at (penalties, penalties, penalties). (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Godwin Heights High School’s 1st-year head football coach Sydeon Harvey is pretty sure his senior-led but still young team will continue to improve this week when the Wolverines host Kelloggsville. He is absolutely sure his team will be pumped-up for the cross-town rival Rockets.

While records don’t really matter in a game like this one — Godwin Heights is 2-3, 0-3 in OK Conference Silver action while Kelloggsville Rockets is 2-4 and 1-2 — bragging rights do, now and in the future.

Godwin Heights High School head football coach Sydeon Harvey. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“The records mean nothing. That’s really true,” Harvey said to WKTV this week at a team practice. “This is my first here here but I’m not an idiot. When you have a rivalry, that’s what it is all about. That’s the one game that, when you look back 20 years, you’ll say ‘We won that game!’ A lot of these kids are just like a stone’s throw away” from Kelloggsville.

“This will be a big game this week. I expect both teams to play really hard, but I’m confident we’ll do well. … We are on the cusp. I feel really confident about this week against Kelloggsville. They are not going to lay down for us, but it’s homecoming, it’s a rivalry. I think our guys are going to be up for that.”

The “big game” between Kelloggsville at Godwin Heights — which is also the Wolverines’ Homecoming game — is this week’s WKTV Feature Game, on Friday, Oct. 8, with cable television and on-demand replays available.

Godwin Heights, after a week off from action, returned to the field and OK Conference Silver acton last week but lost a tight road game at Sparta (4-2, 2-1 in conference). Kelloggsville has seen their offense in high gear for three straight weeks, the last two being wins, as they followed up a win at Calvin Christian in conference action with a non-conference road win at Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard.

After last week’s action, OK Silver standings have Comstock Park (6-0) as the only undefeated in OK Silver action at 4-0, with Hopkins (3-3) at 3-1 and Sparta (4-2) at 2-1 in conference. While a conference crown is not likely for either Godwin or Kelloggsville, either could finish with five wins and a possible playoff birth.

Young, improving team is senior led

“The thing we are doing really well is that the kids are getting better every week,” Harvey said, looking at his team’s up and down season so far. “We are getting better doing some of the little things — better with our discipline, penalties are going down. But we are not penalty free yet.

The Godwin Heights High School football team will be out to protect their house against Kelloggsville. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“You talk about stuff we can be better at, we have to be better at those little things. We can’t have penalties at critical times. But that is part of being a young team. We got 31, 32 guys on varsity and 10 of them are seniors. We are pretty much a young team. But I have been really pleased that we are getting better at all the little things, running the ball, throwing the ball, getting everybody involved.”

Another thing coach is pleased with is his senior captains.

“All our captains are playing really, really well,” he said. “Kaleil (Harris) is a two-way player, he plays rover (on defense) and plays wide out (on offense) — he’s made a lot of real good plays for us. Jeremiah (Drake), our starting quarterback — he was missing  for three games and that hurt us a little bit, it was just a change. He’s a great leader, and been doing really well for us.

“Javeon (Lyons), who is our defensive captain, has played really well for us. And then there is Jabari Crump(-Moore), he’s great leader for us and been playing extremely well for us. We have four captains and they have played great as captains, they’ve been great leaders and they’ve been great on the field.”

The Godwin Heights High School football team at practice this week preparing for a game against Kelloggsville. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Where and when to see WKTV game replays

WKTV featured games will be on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum, 2021 General Election: City of Kentwood Mayor race

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Election, Local Faces, Local History, Politics, ,

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. Among them were the City of Kentwood Mayor Forum. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.

The city’s mayoral seat is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. For a precinct and ward map, click here.

The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley and current Ward 1 Commissioner Emily Bridson.

The City of Kentwood Mayor Forum is on-demand on WKTVLive.org. It will also be televised on local cable television on WKTV Government 26, beginning Thursday, Oct. 14 at 8:30 p.m., and continuing Oct. 15 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 16 at noon, and other dates. (Visit here for the WKTV cable channel schedule.)

For more information on the candidates in the City of Kentwood mayoral election, see this WKTV Journal story on the candidates’ We The People videos.

Kelloggsville Rockets offense on full thrusters as traditional rivalry game at Godwin awaits

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Kelloggsville head football coach Brandon Branch talked to WKTV this week about his team’s impressive offensive production and what the keys have been … hint, hint … getting his two best athletes the ball. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Two things are just about locks when it comes to this week’s OK Conference Silver football contest when Kelloggsville High School visits Godwin Heights in their annual cross-town clash.

The first is the two team’s records don’t really matter in rivalries like this one, and the second is the Rockets’ dynamic duo of senior Jabari Campbell and junior Camron Townsend will get their touches.

Both teams come into the contest with up and down seasons: The Rockets are 2-4 overall and 1-2 in conference, the Wolverines are 2-3 and 0-3. But Kelloggsville has won two in a row after last week’s 34-24 non-conference road win at Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard, while Godwin has played tough teams really tough, including last week’s 29-14 loss at Sparta, in a game what was tight until the fourth quarter.

Both could also still could get to five wins and have a shot at the playoffs.

The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

So, of course, the Friday, Oct. 8, contest — which will also be Godwin’s Homecoming Game — will be this week’s WKTV Feature Game. With local cable television and later on-demand replays available.

“Records don’t matter,” Kelloggsville head football coach Brandon Branch said to WKTV at a practice this week. “It’s like playing your brother in pick-up basketball. You always want to win, regardless of the score, regardless of the age difference, regardless of everything that has happened before. This game is the most important one. It’s doesn’t matter what the records are coming into this one.”

For Branch, who has brought stability and now emerging success to the Rockets program in, this, his second season leading the program, the key factor this week as it has been all season — keeping his high-scoring offense in high gear to keep them in games.

Led by Campbell and Townsend, who each have 500+ yards and at least 8 touchdowns receiving, and junior quarterback Zachary Zerfas, who has thrown for 1,500+ yards, Kelloggsville’s offense has scored 26+ points in five of six games.

“Jabari and Cam are our best athletes, by far,” Branch said. “Those are the guys we are trying to get the ball to. We try to find as many unique ways to get the ball to them as we can. Zach does a great job finding them, but he’s not just staring those guys down. He’s spreading the ball round pretty good. … but I’d be lying if I said we were not trying to get Jabari and Cam the ball.”

And sometimes Townsend just takes the ball himself — he has three touchdowns on interceptions while playing defense this season.

A combined effort of players, coaches

There is a lot more happening on the Rockets offense than simply pitch-and-catch between the three leaders, however.

The scoring success is “really just taking advantages of the strengths that we have. We use our strengths to expose the other team’s weaknesses as well,” Branch said. “I’m the offensive coordinator, but really it is coaching by committee,” pointing out assistants James Gentile, quarterback coach, and Justice Wright, receivers coach. “They get those players in the right place to make plays.”

Assistant coach Will Gooch, center, works a drill with the Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

And the offensive line coaches, including Rob Fron and Will Gooch, are seeing their work paying off as the season has progressed — “Our offensive line has really grown in the last couple weeks.”

Branch pointed out junior tailback Brendon Tuinstra and junior center William Howard II as also being key to the offense.

And other players are playing well but don’t have the stats to show it, Branch said, including sophomore Jeremie Tsoumou and junior DeMarreon Rodriguez.

“Those guys play positions on offense that because they are running their routes tough, the safeties have to make a decision. So if the safeties have to make a decision that makes it an easier decision for Zach,” Branch said. “Because those guys, the nine other guys besides Jabari and Cam, are working their butts off each week, those two have the opportunity to do what they do.”

  • The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • The Kelloggsville High School football team in practice this week as the Rockets prepare for Godwin Heights. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Team is young but not too young

As the Rockets have started to see success, so has the entire program started to see success.

The current varsity has nine seniors, 13 juniors suited up, a sign that the program is growing but young players are not being rushed to play varsity too soon.

“I definitely think we are headed in the right direction,” Branch said. “ Our numbers are growing. We have the biggest JV team we’ve had in a long time this year. 26-27 kids coming out every week. And our kids are doing the job in the classroom, making sure they are staying eligible and able to play.
 

“Having those nine senior and 13 juniors just make it easier (for the coaches) because we can just pick the one or two sophomores that are ready. … We are able to let those (other underclassman) continue maturing.”

Can’t be there live? Catch it on WKTV

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

County animal shelter one of many local animal welfare groups part of Bissell’s ‘Empty the Shelters’ campaign

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Kent County Animal Shelter’s Angela Hollinshead with “George” — who has since found a home. But there are many more like George awaiting. (KC Animal Shelter)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Animal Shelter’s staff members are always enthusiastic about participating in the Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” fall event, which starts next week, not only for the funding provided to support the adoption event but also for the publicity to make people aware of the event.

But they also know there is always a need for sheltering needy animals, and a year-around need to support current and possible future animal lovers in finding their perfect housemates.

“Bissell is wonderful in that they provide all the resources shelters need through media sites to make people aware of the event, as well as funding it,” Angela Hollinshead, division director of the Kent County Animal Shelter, said to WKTV. But “we will always need adopters. There will always be a need for people willing to adopt the pets that come through our door.”

Who could resist? (KC Animal Shelter)

The Bissell Pet Foundation’s fall national “Empty the Shelters” adoption event, running Oct. 4-10, is a quarterly effort that has helped more than 61,787 pets in shelters find their “forever homes” by sponsoring reduced adoption fees for $25 or less. This fall’s event will be hosted in more than 180 shelters in 38 states, including about 11 in West Michigan, including the Kent County Animal Shelter.

Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, Bissell Pet Foundation began its “Empty the Shelters” campaign in 2016 by sponsoring adoptions across the country and in Canada.

“Shelters are in dire need of support in the wake of natural disasters and overcrowding due to obstacles such as increased length of stay and slowed adoptions for mid-to-large sized dogs,” Bissell said in supplied material. “Our fall ‘Empty the Shelters’ will support the adoption of thousands of pets across the country, helping shelters in this time of crisis. Opening your home to a shelter pet will save a life and create space to give another pet a chance.”

Among the participating West Michigan shelters are Al-Van Humane Society, Crash’s Landing, Faithful to Felines, Harbor Humane Society, Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven, Humane Society of West Michigan, SPCA of Southwest Michigan, Van Buren County Animal Control and Wishbone Pet Rescue Alliance.

Because every shelter is not participating for the full event, potential adopters are encouraged to visit the “Empty Shelters” website to find the nearest participating shelter and confirm their adoption day details.

Animal rescue, adoption efforts are year-round

“The pets who come to us are not broken or damaged, oftentimes coming to us through circumstances that are no fault of their own,” Hollinshead said. “We have met some truly wonderful animals.”

While the pet intake numbers fluctuate from month-to-month, Hollinshead said that they take in approximately 142 animals per month.

Need a little, or big, companion while working from home? Kent County Animal Shelter may have a perfect match awaiting. (KC Animal Shelter)

“These events help us a lot because we don’t turn away stray animals,” she said. “The reduced adoption fee helps us find homes for pets who have been here longer.”

Since 2019, Hollinshead has also noted a 48 percent decrease in pets coming into the shelter due to resources they are now able to offer current pet owners. Some of the resources available include spaying and neutering, food resources, and a behavior specialist who can help pet owners with training for their animals.

“These options allow us to focus more on each individual pet and its needs and provide better outcomes,” Hollinshead said.

If an individual or family is not able to adopt, Hollinshead also encourages community members to consider fostering shelter animals, volunteering at the shelter, and raising awareness of the need for continued help from the community.

Located on Fuller Avenue in Grand Rapids, the Kent County Animal Shelter will be participating for the full duration of the event, Oct. 4-9. Potential adopters may contact the shelter at 616-632-7300 if they have any questions.

For more information on BISSELL Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” fall event, visit here.

Extras, extras, read all about us

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Director Todd Lewis talks to some of the extras on the set of the “Horizon” production. (Colleen Pierson)

By Colleen Pierson
WKTV Contributing Writer

When Todd Lewis, multitalented director, writer, actor and musician put out a call for extras for a movie he is creating, we all came in masses.

It’s hard to resist a Lewis film since he pours his heart and soul into every project he is involved. I personally knew with him writing, directing, and editing this film, it would be a great project to be involved in and so did many others who volunteered to help Lewis with the project.

Author Colleen Pierson poses with Gina Boscarino. The two were extras in the film “Horizon.” (Supplied)

Lewis created a short film entitled “Horizon” as part of a three-film series created for the WKTV Community Media’s 28th Street Metro Cruise coverage. Each of the six-minute films tells a narrative story about classic cars and classic design.

Lewis said when approached about the idea, he immediately thought of the late 1940s/early 1950s when some of the most iconic cars were created. 

“I decided to set the story against the backdrop of segregation that was taking place at that time using the vehicle as a symbol of freedom,” he said.

A key setting in the film was a busy 1950s dinner where the two main characters, played by local actors Julianne Howe and Matt Dennis, which meant a whole lot of extras.

Holland Resident R.T. Williams shaved his beard and mustache in order to be an extra in the 1950s-based film.

 

“I may end up on the cutting room floor,” he joked, “but it was such an interesting experience.”

“I love the era of the 1950s,” said Gina Boscarino about being a part of the film. “It was a chance to dress up in costumes and have fun. I was so excited about a new experience.”

Ruth Ann Molenaar gets ready for the “Horizon” shoot. (Colleen Pierson)

For many, like Beth Schaub, it was a great opportunity to learn more about film while for others like Richard Mulligan, it was a nice opportunity to reconnect with many theater people and collaborate, especially after the past couple of years that saw theaters go dark and productions be delayed due to COVID.

“I had a chance to read the script,” said local actress Ruth Ann Molenaar. “I’m the only other black performer. I wanted to be part of it.”

Of course, there is always that chance that being an extra could lead to something bigger.

 

“Who knows maybe Quentin Tarantino might see this and see me,” said Rod Zammaron, jokingly.

 

Postproduction is going on now and some additional filming will be done in the next few weeks. Lewis’s film, “Horizon” along with the other two, John Philben’s “No Trip for Biscuits,” which is set in the 1930s and Kyle Misak’s “Drive,” which is based in the 1980s, will be available on WKTV and on the station’s video on demand service this fall.

We the People 2021 General Election: City of Kentwood’s mayoral position

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Election, Going Local, Local Faces, Local History, Politics, Upcoming Events, We The People, ,

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.

The office of the Mayor of Kentwood is voted upon by all of the City of Kentwood.

The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley and current Ward 1 Commissioner Emily Bridson.


Stephen Kepley – Incumbent

Occupation: Kentwood Mayor

Why did you decide to run for this position?

I’m called to serve my community. I am also the experienced candidate with 8 years as Mayor and 10 years as the Director of Engineering and Inspections. I know the intrinsic details of how the city operates and can continue to lead Kentwood to a bright future.

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

Public Safety is job 1 — The city’s main function is to protect people and property and thus I am not for defunding police. Kentwood is in need to increase our police and fire staff to serve a growing population.

Business and employment will always be high on my initiative list. I will continue to support businesses and local job creation. Kentwood will remain open for business under my administration.

A unified community having a high quality of life is very important to me and our community. I have spent many of my days building relationships and uniting people together. I will continue to use this office to improve the quality of life for our residents and build bridges through bonds of love and understanding to keep Kentwood a unified and strong community.


Emily Bridson — Candidate

Occupation: I resigned from my full-time job as an Operations Manager for Republic Services in December to best run for mayor. My current job is campaigning for Kentwood Mayor, and my part-time job is for Spectrum Health as a Patient Services Representative.

Why did you decide to run for this position?

My concern for my community drove me to attend my first Kentwood City Commission meeting in 2014. I stood up during the general comments as a resident to inquire about the level of crime occurring in my neighborhood. My attendance became regular, and I became a vocal and engaged participant. This led to my appointment on Parks and Recreation and the Planning commissions. After further educating myself on how local government works and accumulating a “to-do” list of the changes I wanted to see, I decided to put my knowledge and passion to work for the people of Kentwood by running to become a City Commissioner. I realized that I needed to be part of the change that I wanted to see in our community. Now, after serving as a City Commissioner, I am ready to continue my passion and work for the people of Kentwood as your next mayor. I would be honored to earn your vote for Mayor of Kentwood to ensure we have safe neighborhoods, recycling, trails, and the support small businesses need to build a thriving, vibrant community for all.

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

Public safety: Crime rates have been soaring over the last five years, and our community members deserve to feel safe in their homes. I am committed to working with public safety officials to reverse violent crimes and car break-ins. My relationship with our public safety officials is strong, which is why I am proudly endorsed by Kentwood Professional Firefighter’s L3174, and I look forward to continuing to grow such relations within our community between safety officials and residents to ensure a strong and safe Kentwood.

Sustainability: Kentwood residents have shared with me that they would like to see recycling services, trails, and green spaces. Ensuring access to clean drinking water and preserving our natural resources for our children and generations to come will also be central to my work as your mayor. I value the voices and needs within our community, and I will work to ensure that your needs are met by Kentwood becoming an environmental and sustainability leader.
 

Supporting small businesses and growing our local economy:  Small businesses and entrepreneurs play crucial roles in Kentwood’s economy and culture. It is up to us to ensure they have the needed resources to survive the current climate and bounce back as the economy continues to recover from the pandemic. As your mayor, I will support local businesses throughout this time and beyond to allow Kentwood to be a place that entrepreneurs and employers seek out and strengthen our economy.

Snapshots: Kentwood City Commission candidates, in their words and We The People videos

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Election, Going Local, Local Faces, Politics, Upcoming Events, We The People,

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Talk is cheap, voting is free; take it to the polls.”

Nanette L. Avery


City Commission At-large seat

The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, which is one of two commissioners at-large, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Commissioner Betsy Artz and candidate Leonica Riley Erwin. Go here for the story.

City Commission Ward 1

The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9, roughly the southwest areas of the city. The non-partisan candidates for the open Ward 1 seat are Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Emily Bridson, who is running for mayor. Go here for the story.

City Commission Ward 2

The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. The non-partisan candidates, the top two vote-getters in an August primary for the position, are Jessica Ann Tyson andDan VanderMolen. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Tom McKelvey. Go here for the story.

(Not-so) Fun fact:

12.5 percent

In the November 2020 election, 70.9 percent of white voters cast ballots compared with only 58.4 percent of nonwhite voters. Source.

Kentwood’s The Vibe offered inspiration, information about unique adaptive recreation

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Kentwood resident Brad Dion talks to the crowd at the City of Kentwood’s The Vibe event recently. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Kentwood and West Michigan community, both those involved in and those who support the city’s Adaptive Recreation Programs, turned out as the city’s Parks and Recreation Department put on its “The Vibe” event recently.

The annual celebration and fundraiser, held Sept. 16 at the city’s Kent District Library branch, was a night of inspiration — especially the story of guest speaker Brad Dion — as well as a chance to mix with like-minded people supporting the goals and continuation of local adaptive recreation programs such as waterskiing and indoor rock climbing.

(WKTV informational videos on the various programs, produced with the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department for TheVibe event, are linked at the bottom of this story.)

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department team supporting the Adaptive Recreation at September’s The Vibe event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Adaptive Recreation Program coordinator Ann Przybysz talked to WKTV at the event about the importance and uniqueness of the program — “The program serves those typically underserved in other recreation programs. We appreciate offering very inclusive programs.”

However, the highlight of the event, other than the money raised for a special need for the adaptive recreation water skiing program, was clearly Dion talking about his life, his efforts to overcome disability, and his passion for helping others to overcome — to thrive — however disabled.

“I like to call it a different ability,” Dion told the gathering from his wheelchair. “I don’t know what the future will hold, but I do know I will continue to be involved with these programs. Continue to teach wheelchair tennis to Kentwood parks and rec kids. To be involved.”

(See his complete talk, recorded by WKTV, above. And you can follow him on Facebook and Instagram.)

 

Dion, a longtime Grand Rapids resident and East Kentwood High School graduate, shared his life experiences of living with cerebral palsy, accomplishing goals and giving back to his community.

As a wheelchair athlete, Dion enjoys competing in wheelchair tennis. He also loves to mentor and coach wheelchair sports to kids with disabilities. While he spends his days inside the classroom teaching fifth- and sixth-grade general education as well as supporting special education. He has learned to use his life story, living with a “different ability,” to show others that “the sky’s truly the limit when it comes to what someone can do if they set their mind to it.”

Funds raised at this year’s event will go toward purchasing new jet skis for Kentwood’s adaptive water ski program — essential safety equipment as staff must be able to get to participants very quickly if necessary. The program includes various adaptive water ski clinics offered by the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with community partners.

Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department program coordinator Katelyn Bush and one of her Adaptive Recreation participants at September’s The Vibe event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming, according to supplied material, and does so in partnership with community partners such as Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and dozens of volunteers.

Adaptive programs available include archery, bike club, boccia league, bowling, canoeing, downhill skiing, golf league, leisure club, kayaking, rock climbing, track and field clinics, pickleball, wake boarding and water skiing, along with dances and other social events.

Open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond, the programs enable participants to enjoy the benefits that come with any athletic or recreational activity, such as a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills.

To learn about current offerings, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.

Videos of various programs

Adaptive Archery

Adaptive Kayaking

Adaptive Snow Skiing

Adaptive Rock Climbing

Adaptive Water Skiing

We the People 2021 General Election: City of Kentwood’s City Commissioner Ward 2

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By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.

The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.

The non-partisan candidates, the top two vote-getters in an August primary for the position, are Jessica Ann Tyson andDan VanderMolen. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Tom McKelvey.

Note: Candidate VanderMolen chose not to record a new general election We The People video but instead use his video from the primary election.


Jessica Ann Tyson — Candidate

Occupation: Business owner of The Candied Yam — Delightful Southern Cuisine; JA PR Group, LLC; Pink Lounge Dry Salt Therapy

Why did you decide to run for this position?

As a long time Kentwood resident and business owner, I want to continue and expand my volunteer service to the community I love, work and live in. There are many opportunities for continued growth. This is why it is of the utmost importance that we elect qualified, caring servant leadership. I am active in our community. With the full support of my family, I know that I am the right person to represent for such a time as this.

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

Involved leadership — If you serve the community you must be genuinely and authenticity involved. You only know what the community needs if you show up. Lack of involved leadership will only cause further disconnect. Our community is changing and deserves elected leadership involvement.

The community of Kentwood is facing space deficits. From crisis with housing to available land for zoning uses, the right leadership can support with expertise and knowledge. The city needs elected servants that are good listeners and appreciate input from constituents. The elected official need to serve by being active and forward thinkers in utilization and creation of spaces available that will make sense for our community and generations to come.

Kentwood has been granted several millions of dollars. It has to be used judiciously. However the funds are spent, those elected need to make sure that there is no legacy cost and minimum taxation to the residence. Vote Tyson to work for YOU November 2.

 

Dan VanderMolen — Candidate

Occupation: Project Coordinator at First Steps Kent

Why did you decide to run for this position?

I’m running for this position because I believe that the residents of Kentwood want a solutions-focused government that works for them, with them, to tackle the important issues facing the city. Kentwood has an incredible opportunity right now to establish a future of long term growth and development, and for that to happen we need to leverage all of our available resources and create intentional, strategic partnerships with the amazing people and organizations in our area. I have made community collaboration the focus of my career over the past ten years and know for a fact that If we work cooperatively we can create a thriving city that works for everyone. However, we’ll only be able to accomplish that if we pledge to focus on what brings us together, not what tears us apart.

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

Affordable Housing: It’s no secret that Kent County currently suffers from an affordable housing crisis which extends to the community of Kentwood. Far too often our residents are faced with the difficult decision of whether to pay their rent or mortgage, or spend money on basic needs. As housing costs continue to climb, pricing many people out of the market, it is imperative that we provide effective measures to help people find safe, attainable housing no matter what the budget.

High quality, affordable child care: The Covid-19 pandemic illuminated a number of things about our world, one of which is just how important access to child care is to the health of our families, our community, and our economy. To address this crisis, we need to tackle it on two fronts: Lower costs for families and higher wages for providers. The only way to accomplish that is through targeted financial investment at the local, state, and federal levels.

Broadband internet: Another issue that became abundantly clear over the past year and a half is that not everyone in our community has equal access to the broadband internet services absolutely necessary to support remote learning and work. By working with local tech companies and internet providers we can develop the much needed infrastructure required to assure that nobody in Kentwood is ever left behind again.

We the People 2021 General Election: City of Kentwood’s City Commissioner Ward 1

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By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.

The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9, roughly the southwest areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.

The non-partisan candidates for the open Ward 1 seat are Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Emily Bridson, who is running for mayor.

Clarkston Morgan – Candidate

Occupation: CEO of Ambassador Consultants LLC, COO of W4 Construction Group

Why did you decide to run for this position?

As a 13-year Kentwood resident, assistant pastor in a local church, small business owner and a Kentwood Planning Commissioner, I’ve found great joy empowering our Kentwood families and community to reach its greatest potential. Having strategically helped broken families grow out of poverty, and small businesses expand profit margins when policy and/or broken systems limited them, I understand this system must become a standard in our city.

As a nonpartisan leader, I’m running to make sure politics do not limit the voice and benefits all residents can receive. To make sure the heart and voice of the community is valued in our city master plans and budget. Coming into office with my past experience means I do not need to use residents as test subjects to confirm the validity of policies. On day one, I’m equipped and ready to serve.
 

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

Affordable Housing and Homelessness: In Kentwood, we have a major silent issue of families and teens experiencing homelessness. Research shows that the three main reasons are due to job loss, addiction and mental health. I find that numerous families are struggling to afford the cost of housing. This, stacked with the three previous issues, have caused families to become homeless.  Utilizing the Community Block Grants, and in partnership with the county and existing nonprofit organizations, we can create housing programs to help families afford housing, but even more, build their credit, eliminate debt and transition to homeowners.
   

Expanding opportunities for small businesses: Kentwood has been successful because of the support of large corporations, but even more our diverse and multi-ethnic small businesses. These companies want to compete on a larger scale but are not being afforded the same opportunities. A solution I have started to work and will launch on a city level is training small businesses to become market ready for larger contracts. And as city projects are position with major developers, I would like to incentivize the use of these contractors for projects. This will allow the corporation, developers, contractors, and small businesses to benefit from the development of the project.

Community Involvement: With residents from 80 nations, speaking about 90 languages, outside Kentwood Public Schools, our community is still operating in silos. We do not lack diversity, but more harmony. When we are in harmony, systems are refined to make sure there’s inclusivity based on cultural intelligence. This means actively engaging multi-ethnic businesses, houses of worship, nonprofits and community leaders to be cultural intelligence advocates to the city, but even more, back to their community.

 

Meochia Thompson — Candidate

Occupation: Self-Employed. Publisher at Blessed Pen Ink Publishing

Why did you decide to run for this position?

I decided to run because of all the negativity and division ripping throughout our country. I want to help create stronger connections within my community by sharing information, resources, and celebrating each other. It’s important that everyone feels heard and counted. I’m looking forward to growing better relationships in Kentwood!

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

I’ve heard from so many voters and most would agree that they need connection. This means listening to the needs of ALL the people that make up our beautiful community and responding effectively when it comes to implementing leadership that reflects the diversity in our neighborhood including our local government, police, and fire departments. We also need programs that help new citizens and immigrants get acclimated to our city and state laws, statutes, programs, and resources. Families need more stop- and speed-limit signs, and sidewalks throughout our neighborhoods, so they can feel safe, and playgrounds with accessible equipment so all children can play together. Businesses need dedicated workers and workers need pathways to leadership and professional development.

East Kentwood Falcons looking for week-to-week improvement after tough start to season

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East Kentwood High School head coach Anthony Kimbrough, shown at practice with his Falcons team, talks about the good and bad of a tough early-season schedule. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The 2021 high school football season did not start the way East Kentwood High School head coach Anthony Kimbrough and his Falcons team expected — going 0-4 as the team prepared this week to host Holland West Ottawa in a OK Conference Red game.

The Falcons did have a brutal early season schedule, by choice and by chance, with a home loss to state power Muskegon followed by road losses at another state power in Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice and then at Rockford (4-0), before falling to Caledonia (4-0) on Sept. 17, the last two in OK Conference Red action.

Rockford is No. 1 in Division 1 the first AP state football rankings. Caledonia is #3 in Division 2, Brother Rice No. 1 in Division 3, and Muskegon (3-1) is— everyone knows — always ranked by year’s end.

“We are just trying to improve every day: basic fundamentals, little things,” Coach Kimbrough said to WKTV this week. “We went into the season knowing our first three opponents were big-time programs … but we are tying to stay positive … just getting the kids to believe in themselves. We are working hard and hopefully it will pay off this Friday.”

And about that brutal season-opening schedule?

East Kentwood football senior Jakeilon Heard (33) awaits his turn at a Falcons practice. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“It is a combination of some people just don’t want to play us, so you are stuck playing the Muskegons and the Brother Rices of the world,” Kimbrough said. “But I do want our kids to understand that if you are going to win a state championship, you are going to have to beat those types of programs.

“It was a challenge going in. … (But) I never imagined us going 0-4. It’s been tough. But I have to give credit to our players and our coaches, they’ve stayed positive. We have a long season ahead and we have five games to get better.”

This week’s game, starting at 7 p.m., is not only this week’s WKTV Featured Game of the Week, with cable television and on-demand replays available, but will also be East Kentwood’s Homecoming Game.

Leaning on senior leaders

Coach Kimbrough said despite the rough beginning to the season, parts of the Falcon machine and several players are performing well on the field.

East Kentwood head football coach Anthony Kimbrough likes the positive attitude of his seniors, despite an 0-4 start to the season, including senior Bobby Durr (68) pumping up teammates as they start a practice. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“I got to start with (senior) Jeffery Perry, our running back. He probably had his best game of the year against Caledonia. He rushed for 93 yards. He ran hard,” Kimbrough said. “And we have offensive linemen that have really played well. Bobby Durr, he’s a senior. He’s stayed positive and he’s a captain on the team.”

“My quarterback (Casey Joppie). He’s a sophomore. He’s taken some licks and got back up. He’s very coachable … very proud of him. And there has been guys on the defensive side who have played well — I could name a bunch.”

And coach also credits many of his seniors, playing or not, as helping to keep the team focused on the past and future winning ways of East Kentwood.

“Jalon Fuller, one of our safeties, he’s played well. Brian Dinh, possibly an all-conference kid, cornerback. He’s played well,” he said. “Those guys just lead by example. Play hard in practice. Staying positive. … I think our underclassman are appreciative of what out seniors bring.”

Along the other seniors are Joe Stille, Reginald Brown, Carlo Russel-Dumani, Dakota Stephens, Felice Messina, Devontae Savage, Shawn White, Jakeilon Heard, Jack Izenbart, Mehki Baker, Anthony Nelson, Alonte’ Brandon, Shawn Dumani, Levi Robinson, Bryson Woods, Patrick MacDonald, Jake Tate and Zachary Vanoverloop. 

Where, when to catch WKTV’s feature games

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

We the People 2021 General Election: City of Kentwood’s City Commissioner At-Large

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By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.

The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, which is one of two commissioners at-large, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood.

The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Commissioner Betsy Artz and candidate Leonica Riley Erwin.

Note: Commissioner Artz chose not to record a We The People video.

Betsy Artz – Incumbent

Occupation: General Manager, Celebration Cinema, 27 years

Why did you decide to run for this position?

After serving this city for the last 8 years as a city commissioner, and more than 10 years in other volunteer positions before that, I feel that there is still so much to do. Serving on the Pension Board for the last 8 years, we now have a fully funded employee pension, something that only one other city in Michigan can claim. I want to make sure that our city continues on this fiscally responsible path.

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

When I am meeting residents while going door-to-door in our city, these are the three most talked about concerns:

Speeding in the neighborhoods — Our commission has been working on different ways to combat speeding, including the purchase of new devices, and the addition of patrol officers.

Car break-ins — Kentwood, and all neighboring cities, have had a rash of auto break-ins. The Kentwood Police Department has stated that in these break-ins, over 90 percent of the cars are unlocked, and some even have the keys in them. I will continue to push a public service campaign to make residents aware.

Growing homeless population — about two years ago, Mayor (Stephen) Kepley and I began working with local agencies to help identify where our homeless population is, and what we can do to help. Since then, I have formed a Kentwood Coalition to End Homelessness. We are working with school administrators, City of Kentwood staff, the Kentwood Police Department, Kent County commissioners, Community Rebuilders, and private residents to find lasting solutions.


Leonica Riley Erwin — Candidate

Occupation: Social worker, Wellspring Lutheran Services

Why did you decide to run for this position?

I genuinely enjoy helping people and want to ensure that all of my Kentwood neighbors can achieve their full potential in life. I’ve spent my career helping Kentwood families resolve personal crises. That has given me a unique understanding of the issues that prevent families from achieving their goals. I want to help us come together as a community to solve some of the problems our neighbors are facing. Running for office is my way of being a part of the solution and taking responsibility for what happens around me.

Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:

The greatest challenge in Kentwood is creating a sense of community. The pandemic, language barriers, and other issues prevent residents from getting to know their neighbors. I’d like our city to organize more neighborhood associations and social groups with a focus on community empowerment. We can provide residents with more cultural events, neighborhood picnics, wellness activities, volunteer projects, and community celebrations near our homes. We can celebrate each other’s successes and provide support when needed too.

Economic stability is another issue voters are facing. My neighbors are concerned about affordable housing, especially renters. Most landlords require a tenant’s wages to be three times the amount of rent. Rent prices are high. Food security is a related concern because there are only two grocery stores in Kentwood. That’s essentially a food desert for residents without transportation. The best-paying jobs in the city are not on the bus line so we need to expand public transportation. More residents need education about the resources available for entrepreneurship.

Environmental safety is a major concern in Kentwood. Voters want a sustainable recycling program. They want to ensure that there is clean water in EVERY Kentwood home. They want our city to be pedestrian-friendly with continuous improvements to our parks and trails. Voters want ALL Kentwood residents to feel safe in our neighborhoods. Discussions about community policing and mental health services for our community need to be held. Finally, voters want Kentwood to be an environment where everyone has access to high-speed internet.

Nationally ranked GRCC men’s cross country team includes Wyoming, Kentwood runners

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The Grand Rapids Community College men’s cross country team at the Calvin Invite, at Calvin University, on Sept. 4. (GRCC)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The first national coaches poll came out early this month and the Grand Rapids Community College men’s cross country team was ranked #3 in the country for National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 2 schools.

And as the team prepares to host its annual GRCC Raider Invitational Saturday, Sept. 18, at Calvin University’s course, three runners with local ties will be on the course for the Raiders.

GRCC cross country runner Coleman Clark. (GRCC)

While the most watched of a large and talented squad of first-year GRCC runners, according to head mens coach Garrett Lacy, is Coleman Clark — the 2020 MHSAA Division 4 cross-country state champion from Carson City-Crystal High School — two freshman from Kentwood, Christian Martinez-Ramos and Lucas Schneider, are expected to also be top runners.

And sophomore returner  Lance Jourdan, of Wyoming, can challenge for a top spot “on any give day,” Lacy said to WKTV.

GRCC cross country runner Joshua Kipkoech. (GRCC)

The top GRCC returner — and the team’s No. 1 runner — is Joshua Kipkoech (Kenya/Kipsoen Secondary). Kipkoech was the Michigan Community College Athletic Association and NJCAA Region XII champion last year, and went on to finish 5th at NJCAA D2 cross-country national championships. He also holds the school record at GRCC in an 8k time of 25:22.

Martinez-Ramos, who attended Wyoming Kelloggsville High School, and Schneider, who attended East Kentwood High School, both finished within the top 7 runners in the Raiders first action at Calvin University Sept. 4. Martinez-Ramos finished as the 5th GRCC runner in a time of 28:16  over the 8-kilometer distance, and Schneider was the 7th man in 29:17. Jourdan attended Calvin Christian.

Raider men’s team deep and fast

“This year’s squad is probably the deepest it has ever been with 15 guys on the roster,” Lacy said. “When I came to GRCC just two years ago we had just three men on the roster, so to grow the program over the last two years into a team of 15 is really quite rewarding.

“Beyond that, we are coming off a season in 2020 that was one of the best in school history where the team captured it’s first MCCAA and Region XII championships for the first time since the reboot of the program took place in 2014.”

The team then went on to finish in 9th place at the NJCAA D2 National Championships last year in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

“For this season’s outlook we look to build upon the success that we had least season and defend our conference and regional championships and attempt to go back-to-back. We also are aiming for a top three podium finish at our national competition this year and to bring home some hardware for the college and the Grand Rapids community.”

This year’s squad is highlighted by 10 newcomers to the team, Lacy said, including Clark as well as transfers Brian Frazee (Kellogg Community College) who was NJCAA D3 All-American last season, and Jaydon Moleski (Rochester University, and a graduate of Cedar Springs High School.

And Lacy also sees good things coming from both Martinez-Ramos and Schneider.

GRCC cross country runner Lucas Schneider. (GRCC)
GRCC cross country runner Christian Martinez-Ramos. (GRCC)

“I think both runners have a ton of potential for growth, and will continue to improve throughout the season,” Lacy said. “Lucas is a very hard worker who put in a ton of summer miles to get ready for this season, but had a two week setback with an ankle injury that sidelined him for two weeks right before the start of the season or he would likely be even further up on the squad than he is now.”

“Christian has a desire to be great matched by few that I have ever coached before, he just needs to work on being patient and trust the process and I have no doubt he will achieve the goals he has set for himself.”

 

GRCC cross country runner Lance Jourdan. (GRCC)

Jourdan, coach Lacy said, is “not inside our top 7 right now, but could be on any given day. He is also a great sophomore leader on the team and brings a ton of value in practices and on meet days that goes beyond just being in the top 7 runners.”

Another “key” returner is Andrew Periard of East Grand Rapids.

For a full schedule of the GRCC cross country team, visit grccraiders.com.

Kentwood’s adaptive recreation celebration (and support) night to have more ‘casual vibe’ this year

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The City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, part of the city’s Park and Recreation Department programing, includes summertime water skiing. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

There are many reasons to attend “The Vibe,” the City of Kentwood’s community event this week to raise awareness and funds for the city’s Adaptive Recreation Programs.

Yes, it is a fundraiser — this year with the proceeds going to keep its adaptive waterskiing program even more participant-safety focused. But, also, it is a chance for the general public and program participants to mix and learn about the program and its importance to the community.

But this years event — on Thursday, Sept. 16, at the city’s Kent District Library branch — will have a much more “casual vibe” than in some past years.

“This years Vibe has a totally different feel than in years past,” Katelyn Bush, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator, said to WKTV. “It’s going to be more like a backyard barbecue. It is more informal … and is also going to be outside. It is like just hanging out with your friends. … It is going to have more of a casual vibe.”

And there will be some great new friends to be made at the “backyard barbecue,” for community members who want to support the programs and for program participants.

The City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs includes summertime water skiing for all ages. (WKTV)

“The vibe is a fundraiser but it is also a celebration of what our department does for our community, specifically our adaptive recreation population,” Bush said. “We invite many of our participants that are involved with the programs and their families, so many of our athletes can come and be ambassadors for the program. They can answer questions and share their experiences.”

The Vibe will be held 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. It will include food and cocktails, live music by Main Street Dueling Pianos, a silent auction, adaptive equipment displays and yard games.

The evening also will feature guest speaker Brad Dion, a longtime Grand Rapids resident and East Kentwood High School graduate, who will “share his life experiences of living with cerebral palsy, accomplishing goals and giving back to his community,” according to supplied material.

As a wheelchair athlete, Dion enjoys competing in wheelchair tennis. He also loves to mentor and coach wheelchair sports to kids with disabilities. He spends his days inside the classroom teaching fifth and sixth grade general education as well as supporting special education.

“We are grateful to have Brad Dion share his story at this year’s event,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “We welcome the community to join us to hear his journey and learn more about the value of inclusive recreational opportunities.”

Tickets for the casual-attire event are $40 per person, and tickets are still available. They can be purchased online at KentwoodVibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270.

(The City of Kentwood will continue to monitor public health guidance and orders, which may require changes to events. Residents are encouraged to follow current public health guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19.)

Water skiing is fundraising focus this year

Funds raised at this year’s event will go toward the city’s adaptive water ski program. The program includes various adaptive water ski clinics offered by the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with community partners. Kentwood also offers its own “Sibs Clinic” once a year, where friends and family members are encouraged to ski with their loved one with a disability.

The City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs includes summertime water skiing, which requires extensive safety support. (WKTV)

The clinics give youth and adults of all abilities an opportunity to experience water skiing “in a positive and safe environment with the help of trained staff and volunteers,” and equipment designed for individuals with cognitive or physical challenges.

That “safe environment” is, as always, a focus of the adaptive recreation staff and the programs they offer.

“The funds raised at this year’s event will go to purchase two new jet skis for our adaptive water ski program,” Bush said to WKTV, “These two watercraft are essential to the program. … They trail the skiers and many of our skiers have pretty severe physical limitations. So once they are in the water, their safety is really our responsibility and our top priority.”

If the skiers hit a wave or they fall off, those two jet skies have a trained person riding on the back to get to the skiers “in just a matter of seconds.” … We have to have that ability or we cannot run the program safety.”

Many adaptive recreation programs offered

“We offer a variety of adaptive recreation programs to meet the interests of all individuals — from those who enjoy relaxing leisure opportunities all the way to the biggest thrill seekers,” Bush said in supplied material.

Katelyn Bush, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. (WKTV)

“Because water sports are high-adrenaline activities, they are a great way for people to get out of their comfort zone, enjoy the rush of going fast and feel the wind in their hair. It’s no surprise we have a waiting list each summer.”

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming in partnership with community partners such as Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and dozens of volunteers, according to supplied material.

Adaptive programs include archery, bike club, boccia league, bowling, canoeing, downhill skiing, golf league, leisure club, kayaking, rock climbing, track and field clinics, pickleball, wake boarding and water skiing, along with dances and other social events.

The Vibe event will have stations where some of our adaptive equipment will be displayed, where educational information will be available — “Who might use it, why they might use it,” Bush said. “This is an opportunity for conversation and curiosity, and support for these programs. It’s a party. It’s an educational opportunity. It is just a unique way to connect to the community.”
 

Open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond, the programs enable participants to enjoy the benefits that come with any athletic or recreational activity, such as a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills.

To learn about current offerings of the Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.

WKTV Voices: 9/11 at 20 — The stories of local Muslim Americans, in their own words

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Local Faces, Local History, WKTV Projects, ,

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Hamza Khan, one of several local Muslim American young persons who WKTV interviewed as it prepared for its series of video interviews “WKTV Voices: 9/11 at 20 — Our Islamic neighbors 20 years later”, is in many ways an archetypal American success story in the making.

His family is of Pakistani heritage, but he was born in West Michigan after his parents immigrated more than 20 years ago. He was raised and attended high school locally and is currently a Michigan State University student, studying neuroscience.

And, as we learned when he agreed to host a short documentary based on the series of WKTV Voices interviews, he is poised to be a success in his chosen education/career field but also possesses a modern youth’s sense of humor.

When, during the filming of his documentary segments, a WKTV staff member commented that he was “very good” on camera — his quick retort was … “Well, if this neuroscience thing does not work out.”

During the past several months, preparing for the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America, WKTV has been interviewing local Muslim Americans — from university professors, to local Islamic religious leaders, to immigrant and American-born citizens, including young people such as Khan.

WKTV’s goal was to let them tell their own stories.

This short documentary is a synthesis of those interviews.

For the complete WKTV Voices: 9/11 at 20 interviews, visit WKTVvideos on YouTube.
 

WKTV Journal’s “Voices: 9/11 at 20 — Our Islamic neighbors 20 years later” airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule. For dates and times on Channel 99, visit here). Online/print stories are available by searching “9/11 at 20” on WKTVJournal.org.

South Christian hosts familiar foe Middleville in WKTV’s Feature Game

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Education, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports,
Grand Rapids South Christian High School football team at practice before the Middleville Thornapple Kellogg game Sept. 10. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

As Grand Rapids South Christian High School prepares to play its first OK Conference Gold game of the season, head football coach Danny Brown just wants his 1-1 Sailors to continue to improve when they host Middleville Thornapple Kellogg.

And despite Middleville coming in with a 0-2 record, including a forfeit loss last week due to COVID-19 concerns, coach Brown knows his team will have a challenge as they seek improvement and to be “paying our best at the end” of the season.

“Middleville always plays hard. We know they are going to play hard,” Coach Brown said this week to WKTV. “Last year we beat them 28-7, but we had to fight, and scratch for everything we got. I would not expect this week to be any different.

Grand Rapids South Christian High School head football coach Danny Brown. (WKTV)

“I think, for us, I just want us to get better week in and week out. We do not want to play our best football in week two or week three. We want to be paying our best at the end. As long as we continue to progress and we keep playing, we can continue to do what we have been doing and get better.”

WKTV will cover the South Christian vs. Middleville game as we  continue our 2021-22 Featured Game coverage season. This week’s game will be at East Kentwood with kick off at 7 p.m.

“We are feeling good about where we are at,” Coach Brown said, reviewing the Sailors’ 27-7 win at Grand Rapids Christian followed by a 21-30 loss at home to East Grand Rapids Sept. 3. “We felt like we got better last week, it just didn’t come to fruition at the end of the game. In the first half last week, we played good outside of one minute. We were up 7-0 with one minute to go. … All of a sudden it went from 7-0 to 13-7.”

Overall, coach Brown said, his team has been physical but needs to create and stop  “explosive plays” more often, and it needs to get healthy.

Grand Rapids South Christian High School football team at practice before the Middleville Thornapple Kellogg game Sept. 10. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“I think physically, we are good. We are physical. We are playing hard. So, as far as the football piece, we’re doing very well,” he said. “Offensively, we have to start creating some explosive plays. We have to limit, with our defenses, their explosive plays. I think if we can get those two things figured out, I like where we are headed.”

In pointing out some of his key players, he also pointed out the team’s early season injury issues that are working themselves out.

“Jake DeHaan (junior quarterback) has maybe started a little slow, but obviously he is big part of what we do,” coach Brown said. “Jace DeMann (senior cornerback and wide receiver) … “He’s already scored a touchdown on an interception … We are going to get him in on some offensive stuff because he is just a really good player.”

He also pointed out Colton Schreur, a senior linebacker and wide receiver, and Cameron (Cam) Post, a junior offensive lineman and linebacker as players to watch — “They are both inside linebackers and play offense as well. They have been out with injuries. … If we can get healthy, that’s a big thing. We are missing some guys but when we can get healthy we should be in a good spot.”

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

Grand Rapids native series with helicopter squadron in San Diego

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Faces, Veterans

By Stephaine Fox
Navy Office of Community Outreach

Petty Officer 3rd Class Andres Ramirez, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, serves in the U.S. Navy in San Diego, California.

Andres Ramirez (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jesse Hawthorne)

“I joined the Navy because I was in my first year of college and realized I needed assistance paying for my education,” said Ramirez. “I plan to go back to finish my degree with the help of the Navy in the future.”


Ramirez joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Ramirez serves with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron SIX (HSC 6) in San Diego, working with one of the Navy’s most advanced helicopters, the MH-60S Knighthawk.

 

Growing up in Grand Rapids, Ramirez attended Catholic Central High School and graduated in 2016. Today, Ramirez uses the same skills and values learned in Grand Rapids to succeed in the military.

“I was taught to be grateful for what I have,” said Ramirez. “It’s so important to be considerate of others and appreciate people from different cultures, backgrounds, etc. You get all of that in the Navy.”

These lessons continue to help Ramirez while serving in the Navy.

Navy pilots and aircrew at HSC 6 constantly train to ensure they are prepared for peacetime and warfighting missions. The mission set of the MH-60S includes anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, vertical replenishment, logistics support, personnel transport, humanitarian disaster relief, medical evacuation, support to Naval Special Warfare and organic airborne mine countermeasures. MH-60S helicopters are also equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and enable other operations for the carrier strike group.

“For over 60 years, HSC 6 has provided all-weather rotary wing operations to America’s Navy,” said Cmdr. Charles A. Chmielak, HSC 6’s commanding officer. “Whether it’s recovering the astronauts of Apollo 14 after they returned to Earth, or deploying around the world to preserve free and open sea lanes, our highly trained sailors have always answered the call, wherever and whenever the nation needs them.”

Serving in the Navy means Ramirez is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus, rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The Navy contributes to national security through our mission of protecting the waters and making a global impact,” said Ramirez. “We’re the shore patrol. We monitor and watch the seas to make sure they remain free and safe for all.”

With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.

According to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, four priorities will focus efforts on sailors, readiness, capabilities, and capacity.

“For 245 years, in both calm and rough waters, our Navy has stood the watch to protect the homeland, preserve freedom of the seas, and defend our way of life,” said Gilday. “The decisions and investments we make this decade will set the maritime balance of power for the rest of this century. We can accept nothing less than success.”

Ramirez and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“My proudest naval accomplishment is receiving my Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal,” said Ramirez. “I was on the USS Essex when there was a fire. I was fighting it for more than two hours, so it was nice to be recognized for that hard work.”

As Ramirez and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“To me, serving in the Navy means developing a personal relationship with myself,” added Ramirez. “I’ve noticed that I’ve become more disciplined and started to think of myself as an adult.”

After official ribbon cutting, new administrator takes leadership of Michigan Veteran Homes GR

3-bottom, Community Health, Health, Local Faces, Local History, Politics, Senior Living, Veterans, WKTV Projects, ,
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, center, was among the “ribbon cutting” team at the grand opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, (Michigan Veteran Homes)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

There was a long list of dignitaries, led by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, on hand at the official ribbon-cutting opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, once known as the Grand Rapids Veterans Home, last week.

But maybe the most important person when it comes to the operation of the facility and the care of its veteran residents did not handle one of the scissors cutting the ribbon.

 

Carly MacDonald, who has been hired to serve as the new administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes GR, was present at the Sept. 2 event but did not officially take the position until this week. MacDonald took over from Tracey Nelson, the previous administrator, who successfully led the facility for more than three years through a significant transition in anticipation of the new building opening and its COVID-19 response efforts.

Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) provides day-to-day operational oversight of the state’s veteran homes on behalf of the Michigan Veterans Facility Authority (MVFA) and is a branch of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). The MVH operates the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), along with homes in Marquette and Chesterfield Township. For more information, visit michigan.gov/mvh.

“As a granddaughter and daughter of veterans, I learned at an early age the importance of serving others and our country,” MacDonald said in supplied material. “It’s an exciting time for our team at Grand Rapids as we transition to our new Home and I look forward to meeting and getting to know our veteran members, volunteers and staff.”


The importance of MacDonald’s job and the work she will lead at the new “Home” was echoed by many of the dignitaries at the Sept. 2 grand opening.


U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, addressed the crowd at the grand opening of the Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)

“The state has been serving veterans right here on this campus since the conclusion of the Civil War,” U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said at the opening and  provided in supplied material. “As we embark on this new chapter, we can confidently say that our legacy of serving those who have served will continue for many years to come.”


In addition to remarks by Gov. Whitmer and Maj. Gen. Rogers, others addressing the gathered crowd included Anne Zerbe, executive director of MVH; Dave Henry, chairman of the board for the MVFA; and Robert Troost, a veteran and resident member at the Home.


“I have been anxiously awaiting the completion of the new Home,” Troost, a veteran and resident member at the Home, said in supplied material. “I am very excited to join my friends for a fresh start in a place that truly feels like a home instead of an institution.”


The ceremony included a posting of the colors led by the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids Member Color Guard and music by the Belmont Armory 126th Army Band.


At a total project cost of $62.9 million, with $40.9 million provided through a federal grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Construction Grant Program, construction of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids began in April 2019 and occupies 20 acres and totals 152,784 square feet.


Military members and veterans were in the crowd at the grand opening of the Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)

“This new home is the result of a years-long, bipartisan effort to uphold our commitment to our veterans and their families in Michigan,” Gov. Whitmer said in supplied material. “The new Grand Rapids Home was designed to provide comfort and well-deserved peace of mind for the men and women who put their lives on the line for all of us.”


The “Home” consists of four “neighborhood” buildings and a community center. The neighborhood buildings collectively house 128 private resident rooms with ensuite baths and feature shared living and dining spaces, according to supplied material.


The adjacent community center is the centerpiece of the Home and features therapeutic facilities for behavioral, occupational, physical and group therapy, an exam room, chapel, barbershop and salon, café bistro and gift shop. Residents will also have access to an adjacent outdoor courtyard and memorial garden to observe the natural surroundings the campus has to offer.

New administrator’s background

MacDonald has worked in long-term care for over 20 years, according to supplied material. She joined HCR Manorcare, now known as ProMedica Senior Care, in 2001 as human resources director. Shortly thereafter she “had a desire to expand her professional capabilities” and became licensed as a nursing home administrator.


Carly MacDonald, administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)

This then allowed her to have a greater impact on clinical and administrative affairs, expansion of specialized care and member safety. She most recently has served as the administrator at Ascension Living Borgess Place in Kalamazoo for the past four years.


Throughout the pandemic, MacDonald “has been essential in leading her team in understanding and implementing all CDC, CMS and State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 infection control requirements,” according to a MVH statement. While serving as administrator of Ascension Living Borgess Place, the home had less than ten cases of COVID-19 and no deaths attributed to the virus. 


“We are elated for Carly to join our growing team at MVHGR and are confident she will continue to support our culture of providing exceptional care to those that deserve it most — our veterans and their eligible dependents,” Steve Rolston, MVH chief operations officer, said in supplied material.


Born and raised in Flint, MacDonald received a bachelor’s degree in human resources from Michigan State University and is “an avid alumnus who is devoted to watching
every season of football and basketball,” according to the MVH statement.

She is married to Ryan, a Navy veteran, and they currently reside in Kalamazoo. They celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in June and have two children, Jora, 17, and Logan 21. Carly is also a mom to Maybel, a 4-month-old English Bulldog; Cali, a 4-year-old golden retriever; and a couple rescue cats.

She is active in a women’s golf league and enjoys spending time at the family cottage at Lake George which was passed down to her family from her grandfather. Her grandfather served in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps and her father is a Vietnam veteran.

Wyoming Lee Legends, moving to 8-man football, in this week’s WKTV’s Feature Game

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Local Faces, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, ,
  • Lee Legends head football coach Mark Smoes watching his team at practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)
  • Lee Legends head football coach Mark Smoes working with his team at practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)
  • Lee Legends head football coach Mark Smoes, right, with members of his coaching staff at a practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)
  • A Lee Legends football coach working with the team at practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)
  • Lee Legends football coaches working with the team at practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)
  • The Lee Legends team at practice prior to a Sept. 1, 2021 game. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Wyoming Lee High School football team will be embarking a new era with its Wednesday, Sept. 1, season-opening game hosting NorthPointe Christian — the era of playing 8-man football.

The late change to 8-man, made just before the season started, has head coach Mark Smoes, and his staff and team, doing a bit of audible game planning and play calling however.

Lee Legends head football coach Mark Smoes. (WKTV)

“We’ve had to adjust quite a bit,” coach Smoes said to WKTV this week. “It is the same game but we are adjusting our time because, as coaches, we are learning to adjust to this game.

“It is a faster pasted game. It allows you the opportunity to get skilled players on the field. That kinds of plays to our strength. We are adjusting a little every day, for the players and for ourselves.”

The Lee vs. NorthPointe game, which will be a junior varsity game for the visitors, will be this week’s WKTV Featured Game with coverage on cable television replay and on-demand. The game kick off will be at 5:30 p.m.

The change to 8-man was one of the first decisions made by new Lee Legends athletic director Tray Crusciel, after he took a look at a football program which has struggled in recent years, including going 0-4 and being outscored 193-41 in games played in its 2020 independent schedule season.

“After seeing the numbers we had out for the program, seeing the low numbers currently at 7/8th grade level, and the strength of the program over the last 10 years, we felt this was best for our kids right now,” Crusciel said to WKTV. “Our move to the Alliance (8-man) conference will definitely help across the board, give us more level competition and, I think, with the conference move and the move to 8-man, this community and school will benefit from it greatly.”

The program which Crusciel looked at, and which Smoes coaches, has its fair share of senior leadership, but with less than 20 players total in the high school program and on the school’s only team, almost half are sophomores and freshman.

But, Smoes said, the change to 8-man not only works with the numbers on his team but also on the talent on his team.

The 8-man game “is a little more offensive (and) we like to run the ball, we like to throw the ball. And we just have more area to work in,” he said. “We enjoy that and our players enjoy that. And we have players who are multi-talented on the field play, players who can catch, players who can run, players who can block. It just makes for a faster game. … It plays to our strengths.”

Among the Legends strengths, Smoes said, is a group to seniors and juniors who will likely play both ways in the 8-man system.

Smoes said senior quarterback Kemijion Reed, who did not play last season due to his family’s pandemic concerns, will be back and is expected to trigger the offense. Fellow seniors Rogelio Martinez, Shamaari Hill and Juan De La O are also expected to be key players.

Junior running back Elijah Beckwith, who rushed for 1,000 yards as a freshman two years ago, and slot back Ke’Ontae will also be key offensive players.

“Those players are going to handle a lot of the work for us this season offensively,” Smoes said. “We (also) have a very strong freshman class, and sophomores as well. And the nice thing about 8-man is that before, when your playing 11-man and you are short on players, you played players in positions which were tough for them to play in.”

But this season, with the 8-man format, many of those young players will be eased into the high school game.

This week’s game is one of four currently scheduled for Lee, with two being varsity 8-man and another JV game. (The Legends will be at Martin Sept. 20, hosting Gobles on Oct. 1, and at Dansville Oct. 21. But Crusciel said more games are likely to be added.)
 

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

New Lee Legends athletic director makes hard decision to move football to 8-man game

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Faces, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, ,
Lee High School’s football team celebrating a win over Galesburg-Augusta in 2019 one of only three in the last two seasons. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

New Godfrey-Lee Public Schools athletic director Tray Crusciel, on his first day on the job, had  to help make a hard decision about the Legends football program — a program which has struggled mightily in recent years including going 0-4 and being outscored 193-41 in games played in its 2020 independent schedule season.

The decision made was to move the high school program to the 8-man football game, and to scramble to find games — any games — for head coach Mark Smoes’ players.

“My first day in the office, I was tasked with helping make this decision for the district,” AD Crusciel said to WKTV this week. “After seeing the numbers we had out for the program, seeing the low numbers currently at 7/8th grade level, and the strength of the program over the last 10 years, we felt this was best for our kids right now.

“Our move to the Alliance conference will definitely help across the board, give us more level competition and, I think, with the conference move and the move to 8-man, this community and school will benefit from it greatly.”

After forfeiting a perviously scheduled 11-man game last week, the Legends will open their season by hosting an 8-man game against NorthPointe Christian’s junior varsity squad on Wednesday, Sept. 1, at 5:30 p.m.

The game will be covered by the WKTV Featured Game crew, and broadcast on cable television and made available on-demand.

Lee Legends Dragon and Crest. (Supplied)

This week’s game is one of four currently scheduled for Lee, with two being varsity 8-man and another JV game. (The Legends will be at Martin Sept. 20, hosting Gobles on Oct. 1, and at Dansville Oct. 21. But Crusciel said more games are likely to be added.)

 

“We felt comfortable (scheduling both JV and varsity games) because half our team is freshman/sophomore, but the teams we are playing are all facing the same issues,” Crusciel said. “We are keeping our eyes open for more games but we might have to get lucky.

“For the future, my plan is to seek our 8-man leagues/scheduling agreements to give us full schedules or build numbers back up to transition back to 11-man. Our enrollment sits at 505, so that tells me we have a decent number to tap into. But, this is a huge soccer community and we have kids with various interests and obstacles to overcome.”

He also said a “bright side”  is that the district has 30 or so kids playing football in 5/6th grade. “Our goal needs to be getting engaged with those kids at the lower levels more and keeping them interested and engaged in football.”

Prior to last season’s 0-4 record in a season also impacted by the pandemic, coach Smoes first season leading the team, Lee was 3-6 under then coach Tom Degennaro while also playing an independent schedule.

AD Crusciel’s journey to Lee

New Godfrey-Lee Public Schools athletic director Tray Crusciel, with his wife and new baby. (Supplied)

Prior to coming to Lee, Crusciel had been an athletic director for eight years, including three at Covert, where he helped build the athletic department from 1 team to 13 teams, and to get the school back into an athletic conference. He then worked at Benton Harbor for one year. His resume includes stops at Jackson Lumen Christi and Battle Creek Lakeview.

“The reason I’m up here now (is) wife got a new job at Mercy Health (and) we have tons of family in the surrounding areas and we wanted to move closer to our family,” he said.

Crusciel holds degrees from Western Michigan and Wayne State universities, in for my physical education and sports administration. He played football growing up, he said, and has coached multiple sports.

ArtPrize early: Yellow Ribbon sculpture, inspired by local veterans art project, to be unveiled at public event

Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, Veterans, WKTV Projects, , ,
  • Retired Chaplain John Hooglund, from Holland Home at Breton Woods, produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • Veteran Jurgen Nitzsche produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kent County Veterans Services had planned an in-doors Yellow Ribbon Gala this week to unveil the selected works of more than 100 local veterans created during veteran art workshops in 2020 and 2021, and led by local artist Pamela Alderman. But pandemic concerns caused that to be canceled.

But Alderman will still be showing off selected works which inspired and are included as part of her Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize work at an event Saturday, Aug. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., behind Grand Valley State University’s L.V. Eberhard Center, on the Blue Bridge, in Grand Rapids. The program starts at 10:30 a.m.
 

The event will include Alderman’s Yellow Ribbon sculpture, made in collaboration with several veterans, as well as other individual art pieces made by veterans during the art workshops and also led by Alderman.

There will be live music performed by singer/songwriter and Navy veteran Drew Nelson. There will also be snacks and activities for kids, and county Veterans Services Officers on site to answer questions and set up future appointments for veterans and their families. Additionally the Veterans Services office will have a pop-up shop for making Kent County Veteran ID cards.

But the stars of the show will be the works of the veterans and how their works — and their stories — inspired Alderman’s work.

Pamela Alderman, the lead artist of the veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry, with her son, who is in her first year in the military. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)

“The community veteran ArtPrize work took two years to develop,” Alderman said to WKTV. “Over 100 veterans participated. Some families participated with three generations.”

About 14 veteran art workshops were held throughout the pandemic, some indoors and some outdoors in the Veterans Services parking lot. Some art supplies were event delivered door to door.

 

“The finished work (Alderman’s sculpture) showcases four Kent County veterans pieces, but on Saturday, we will highlight the work of over 100 veterans and family members, plus loved ones,” Alderman said.
 

The Saturday event will also highlight how Yellow Ribbon evolved into a bigger ArtPrize project with Michael Hyacinthe from [Has Heart] at Veterans Memorial Park. This ArtPrize venue, co-curated by Hyacinthe and Alderman, will host the work of 21 veteran entries along with the Yellow Ribbon work.

For Alderman, the two-year project was as much a passion as a project.

“I’m a veteran wife. My husband served as a Naval Officer for 20 years,” said. “I’m also a Blue Star Mother. My youngest son is training as a Navy pilot, and son-in-law also serves as Navy helicopter pilot.”

Artworks tell veteran’s stories

One of the works to be displayed, an abstract vision including a helicopter flying, was created by retired Chaplain John Hooglund from Holland Home at Breton Woods.

According to suppled material, Hooglund worked as an U.S. Army chaplain for 30 years. In Vietnam, he travelled by helicopter with two gunships. Stateside, he helped integrate church services across racial and gender lines. At the Pentagon, he worked with more than 1,400 chaplains — and assisted them in performing their most difficult duties.

“Once, when he walked into a bar wearing his chaplain’s uniform to deliver some sad news, the father burst into tears as soon as he saw him,” Alderman relayed to WKTV in an email. “Those kinds of experiences still follow John decades later.”

Another work, another abstract vision of a flag and a service member saluting, was created by Jurgen Nitzsche, who detailed his service in a statement relayed by Alderman.

“I served in the U.S. Army 394th station hospital unit for six years,” Nitzsche said. “In 1969, I was honorably discharged … During my time in service, I learned mechanical engineering and people skills, which helped me to become an engineer and plant manager. I believe the military is a great start in life for any young person. I’m 80 years old, and I am proud to have served in the United States Army, to help keep our country free and safe.”

Many local veterans groups helped

In addition to the support of Kent County Veterans Services, Alderman also thanked several local groups for their assistance with the workshops and with her project.

Among the groups supporting the project were 92 For 22 and the Kent County Veterans Treatment Court; Ottawa-North Kent Blue Star Mothers and Marne American Legion; Blue Star Mothers of South Kent and American Legion 305; Blue Star Mothers of Ionia, Kent and Montcalm and Ray I. Booth American Legion; Grand Rapids Home for Veterans; Holland Home; Finish the Mission; WINC: For All Women Veterans; and the GVSU Veterans Upward Bound Program.

Wyoming football ready for FH Northern, return to normal season in WKTV’s Feature Game opener

Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Faces, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, ,
Wyoming high head football coach Carlton Brewster, left, watches over practice Aug. 24, as the Wolves prepare for their season opener Aug. 26. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Wyoming High School football team will open its 2021 season Thursday, Aug. 26, hosting Forest Hills Northern in a game which not only marks the debut of head coach Carlton Brewster II leading the program but marks a return to near normal after a 2020 season radically altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

And WKTV will be there to begin its 2021-22 Featured Game coverage season and a season-long run of cable television and on-demand coverage of local high school football. This week’s game at Wyoming will kick off at 7 p.m.

For Wolves coach Brewster, who took over the Wyoming program in March after Irv Sigler Jr. resigned after four years leading the program, the opening night game against the Northern Huskies will be first and foremost chance to begin a normal season after a nearly lost year in 2020.

Wyoming played only five games, posting a 1-4 record in the team’s first season playing the likes of the Muskegon and Zeeland schools in the OK Green, and had several spring and summer restrictions on the program’s off-season activities. (Northern — out of the OK White — posted a 4-3 record leas year, and the two teams did not play as usual in early season action.)

Wyoming high football head coach Carlton Brewster II. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“Our first four games will still be challenging … You have to be ready every week,” Coach Brewster said to WKTV this week. “But it is good for our kids (to have the early season games). We can find out where our kids are at, early on, and as a staff we can come together and decide we need to build on these areas to prepare to go into the OK (Green).”

Not that Brewster and his staff do not already have an idea of the team’s strengths and weaknesses, particularly on offense — the side of the ball where Brewster has excelled playing and coaching in his career. (See a WKTV Journal story about coach Brewster when he took over the program, and see a video interview with him.)

“We got some good skill guys,” Brewster said. “And we are going to utilize the spread (offense) and we are going to utilize the guys we have and get the ball to those guys.”

Wyoming high assistant coach Aaron Berlin working with the team at a practice. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Brewster is also pleased with how the players have ‘bought into” the program since he took over — “Spring and summer has been great (for the program). We came in right away and lifted weights pretty much every single day. A lot of kids bought in.”

And he also pointed out senior leadership as being another strength of his new program.

Isaiah Clark “can play very position on the line, fullback, tight end,” Brewster said. “He’s a great kid. He’s 100 miles an hour and a 3.0 (grade) kid.”

Amani Hobson plays offensive and defensive line, and “does a great job where ever he plays. And Mateo Ledesma plays running back and safety, and will be one of those “skill guys” who will get the ball in his hands — a lot.

WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of football and other fall prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports, and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.

Metro Cruise, looking east for cruise extension and more exposure, partners with Woodland Mall

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Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, talks about the chamber’s Metro Cruise expanding out to a second location in 2021, at the Woodland Mall.

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

People who have a history of cruising with the 28th Street Metro Cruise know it once extended from Cascade to Wyoming, with Woodland Mall a good middle point turnaround for some.

Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, the hosting organization of the Metro Cruise, would like to see those days return.

But this year, just having the event extend its footprint and have a presence at Woodland Mall is a big step in the right direction.

“Woodland (Mall) has been an endpoint for a lot of folks going east,” O’Callaghan said to WKTV. “We are trying to get more people in Cascade, or whatever, doing events that go all the way, the full 13 miles. But at this point Woodland has been a great way to do that.”

The 28th Street Metro Cruise officially kicks-off Friday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m., at its usual and main location at Rogers Plaza in Wyoming, and will continue Saturday, Aug. 28.

Rogers Plaza mall parking lot in Wyoming is always a focal point for the 28th Street Metro Cruise. (WKACC)

As in past years, the Rogers Plaza mall parking lot will feature food trucks and concessionaires, hundreds of collector cars, a kid’s entertainment area, a community awards ceremony, the crowd-favorite Miss Metro Cruise competition finals, live music on the Metro-Main Stage, and the popular Dynamometer car testing area where attendees can see cars rev up to 160 mph. (For more information and schedule of events visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.)

But at the second Main Event site, located on the off 28th Street at Woodland Mall, on Saturday, Aug. 28, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., will feature a wide array of collector, sports, and antique cars. It will also feature multiple food vendors including local food trucks, and official Metro Cruise merchandise.
 

“The good thing about this event here at Woodland Mall is that it is an opportunity for some of the folks in Cascade, Ada, who usually drive down to Rogers Plaza but don’t want to, have a closer venue,” O’Callaghan said. “We’ll have a lot of folks come into see the cars, and we’ll have a lot of folks just want see what it is. … It is a great opportunity for people to come in, park, look at the cars, and have a good time.”

O’Callaghan also expressed gratitude to the management of Woodland Mall for working with the Metro Cruise — “We are glad to have them be part of this for this year and hope it grows.”

And Woodland Mall is happy to be part of the festivities.

“We are looking forward again to welcoming the 28th Street Metro Cruise to Woodland Mall,” Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall, said to WKTV. “In addition to providing shoppers and guests with an excellent selection of shopping, dining and entertainment offerings, we also host many free events and programs for the community to enjoy year-round. … Metro Cruise is one of many events we’ve been grateful to be a part of again this year to bring the West Michigan community together.”

Num-num: Kentwood Farmers Market charcuterie challenge offered culinary skills, creative eye

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The sights and sounds of the City of Kentwood’s Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Five contestants, including at least two from Kentwood, pulled out their cutlery and their eye for beauty recently as the the Kentwood Farmers Market held its first-ever Charcuterie Challenge, which had the entries given 30 minutes to first buy items from the market and then prepare a charcuterie plater for pubic vote.

The Aug. 12 challenge, eventually won by Lisa Hopkins, included contestants Amy Richey, Marne Becker-Baratta, Trang Wilbur and Joshua Knepper.

The competition took place during the Kentwood Farmers Market, located weekly behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, with the finished boards on display and market-goers able to watch the competitors build their boards and then vote for their favorite. The winner received a gift courtesy of the Kentwood Farmers Market.

In the French tradition, charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is the art of preparing and assembling cured meats and meat products. The idea of charcuterie has evolved over the years to include an assortment of meats, cheeses, veggies and other items.

The market randomly selected five challengers out of a group of applicants to each receive $25 and 30 minutes to shop the market and assemble a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board using only those purchased ingredients.

“Charcuterie has become such a fun, popular way to display and enjoy a variety of food,” market manager Kristina Colby said prior to the event. “We are looking forward to seeing all the creative ways challengers showcase local foods found at the Kentwood Farmers Market and use the beautiful, handmade charcuterie boards Handcrafted by Fellow is suppling for the competition.”

For more information about the Kentwood Farmers Market visit KentwoodFarmersMarket.com.

  • The Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, farmers market manager Kristina Colby, center, prepares the chefs for the challenge. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Joshua Knepper is out shopping at the market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Amy Richey (of Kentwood) is out shopping at the market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, the contestants start their work. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Lisa Hopkins — and eventual winner — prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Joshua Knepper prepares his plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Marne Becker-Baratta (of Kentwood) prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Trang Wilbur prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

GRCC mens hoop coach Fox visits WKTV Sports Connection to talk family ties, program goals

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GRCC head mens basketball coach Joe Fox visits the set of WKTV Journal Sports Connection to catch us up on his history and his program. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

On this latest episode of WKTV Journal Sports Connection, we talk with new Grand Rapids Community College head mens basketball coach Joe Fox — a coach with experience assisting on local college teams, a family where coaching basketball runs deep, and a passion for helping student athletes succeed on and off the court.

This summer, Fox was appointed GRCC head coach after serving as an assistant coach — twice — at the downtown Grand Rapids school, as well as at Calvin University and Lansing Community College. He also has been involved with the popular Gus Macker basketball tournament.

And, while it might be cliche, but coaching runs in Fox’s family as his father, Gary Fox, and grandfather, George Fox, both coached high school basketball in Michigan for 25 years. George Fox, in fact, won a state championship with Magic Johnson at Lansing’s Everett high in 1977.

It is Joe Fox’s goals for student-athlete success — in the classroom, on the court, and in life — where Fox says will be a focus of his Raiders program.

Success “on and off the field is a huge thing, not just at the community college level but all colleges,” Fox said to WKTV. “Student athletes, in general, tend to think of themselves through an athletic lens, first and foremost. It’s a big part of their identity, as students. It’s big part of their time. So we are really intentional about making sure they have the academic support they need as well.”

In the WKTV Sports Connection interview, Coach Fox also talked in detail about his experience, his coaching family, and not only what his 2021-22 team will look like but where his program recruiting focus will be.
 

WKTV Journal Sports Connection is a WKTV produced program dedicated to bringing you interviews and stories focused on local Wyoming and Kentwood area high schools sports. You can catch up on all our local sports coverage by visiting WKTVJournal.org/sports. But we also have a volunteer sports crew, both in studio and with our coverage truck. For more information email ken@WKTV.org.

This WKTV Journal sports coverage of high school athletic events and other sports is available at WKTVlive.org. It also airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule). Individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal Sports Connection are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

The George Keen I knew

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George Keen, left, and Ralph Baker on The Racing Show, taped by WKTV in January, 2020. (WKTV)

By Tom Norton, WKTV general manager

Whenever we receive news of the sudden passing of a colleague, friend or family member, it’s always a shock. All of us WKTV Community Media family were shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of George Keen Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021.

George began his decades of volunteering and creating television at WKTV in 1992. I remember first meeting George and knew instantly that he was a natural for broadcast work. His easy-going, affable  and conversational manner made him the perfect television host. We used to joke here that George was so good, he could give a play-by-play of paint drying. The ease from which George could take a guest’s answer and play it into the next question made his television appearances, not so much television, but more a conversation which is where television really shines. It seemed like it was an old acquaintance or friends talking and it was always a pleasure to watch.

And watch they did. In 1992 George and his team created “The Racing Show” to in George’s words, ‘give the racing fans something to talk about over the winter when they were at the races.” I asked him what they were going to talk about and he said, “racing, of course.” Within several months of its launch, “The Racing Show”, every Wednesday at 7 p.m., became appointment television for many in West Michigan. There was no internet or social media to push the audience (or divide it up), but the audience grew quickly.

The show sponsored sold out wintertime racing banquets at the K of C Hall and during a WKTV Buy a Brick telethon in 2002, we gave George and the racing community an entire night of the telethon. All night long the phones jangled with the sound of the racing community buying bricks to support WKTV. We knew, however, that they were really heeding George’s call and it showed that the racing community is a tight knit family.

George stayed with us through the early years of The 28th Street Metro Cruise, again providing that effortless style of good conversation when talking to any classic car owner. Gradually, though his talent led him to work more in radio and at Berlin Raceway and when “The Racing Show” went off the air in 2005 we were sad. For us it seemed an era had passed.

George returned occasionally to host a number of different shows including many years doing play-by-play for Golden Gloves Boxing. In February of 2020 George returned again to WKTV to tape the first  installment of the new “The Racing Show” which would’ve also featured a podcast. He just couldn’t stay away from making television and it was a comeback we were glad to have. When the pandemic shuttered productions, things never did come back together, but we have the one episode that will stay in our archive forever.

I never saw the man use notes. He ability to wing it effortlessly always impressed me and we’re sure much more will be said of George who had so many friends and colleagues across so many facets of life. Something tells me that if Heaven has racing and they want the new guy to “call the race,” everyone back here who knew George would recommend him highly.

God speed George Keen. Thank you for 29 years at WKTV.

WKTV’s commitment to, and coverage, of Metro Cruise runs decades deep; catch some highlights

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The 2013 Metro Cruise, filmed by WKTV. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Since 2005, the 28th Street Metro Cruise has been an annual event put on by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, but “cruising 28th Street” has been a “thing” long before then — people have grown up cruising up and down 28th Street, maybe first with their father and now with their children.

Cruisers have long considered 28th Street a memorable place for car lovers, particularly around the Rogers Plaza area in Wyoming, and “Bringing car lovers together to celebrate this long-standing tradition was the foundation for the current event,” the chamber states on their website.
 

And WKTV Community Media has been covering the 28th Street Metro Cruise since its inception.

“WKTV Community Media has for nearly half a century been part of the Wyoming and Kentwood community and, with Metro Cruise being one of largest gatherings of our community, we have a long history with the event,” Tom Norton, general manger of WKTV Community Media, said. “We have covered it in many ways over the years. Rain or shine. Big and smaller. The cars change but our commitment to coverage has not.”

For just a sampling of WKTV’s coverage, and some recent YouTube highlights, see the following links:

The History of Metro Cruise


Even in the COVID-19 year of 2020, WKTV got creative and still offered up a show.



In 2017, a car show met Hollywood premiere as WKTV brought classic vehicles to the red carpet.



In 2018, WKTV looked at what “classic sports and performance cars” might look like in the future.



2014 Metro Cruise Live



For more information and schedule of events visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.

New to the job but not to successful college athletes, GRCC AD Ferullo visits WKTV Sports Connection

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Grand Rapids Community College athletic director Lauren Ferullo, the first female AD in these schools history, visits the set of WKTV Journal Sports Connection to catch us up on her history and the school’s athletic programs. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

On this latest episode of WKTV Journal Sports Connection, we talk junior college sports conferences, preparing students for success both in athletics and in life, and the impact on female athletics of Title lX. With us is Grand Rapids Community College athletic director Lauren Ferullo, the first female AD in these schools history.

As part of a wide ranging discussion on GRCC sports with WKTV sports volunteer Greg Yoder, AD Ferullo points out that female athletic directors are more and more common these days — if still a small minority — but she still take great pride in being a role modern for young women on the playing field in the field of athletic leadership.

“It definitely matters to me because I am one of few. I actually looked up the statistics today and about 15 percent of (of college athletic directors) … are female. And then it is about 13 percent at the community college level,” Ferullo said to WKTV. “So I am one of very few and I take that very seriously.

“I think I can be a role model for female athletes, I am a product of Title lX. I had those opportunities. I was able to play sports growing up. I was afforded those opportunities and now I am an athletic director.”

The federal act, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, in brief, prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. One result was a vast expansion of college athletic scholarships being given to females.

WKTV Journal Sports Connection is a WKTV produced program dedicated to bringing you interviews and stories focused on local Wyoming and Kentwood area high schools sports. You can catch up on all our local sports coverage by visiting WKTVJournal.org/sports. But we also have a volunteer sports crew, both in studio and with our coverage truck. For more information email ken@WKTV.org.

This WKTV Journal Sports Connection is available on-demand, along with WKTV coverage of high school athletic events and other sports, at WKTVlive.org. It also airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule). Individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal Sports Connection are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

Sharing art with audience, Grand Rapids Ballet returns to live performances with outdoor shows

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Company dancer Gretchen Steimle, at right in front, talked with WKTV after a rehearsal this week about performing outdoors.

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Grand Rapids Ballet, after a year of beautiful but somewhat distant virtual performances last season, returned to rehearsals this week as the company prepared for a 2021-22 season of live audience performances.

But before GR Ballet artistic director James Sofranko’s troupe hits the Peter Martin Wege Theatre stage with a live audience in October, when the ballet will present the appropriately title Off the Canvas program to being its 2021-22 season, the dancers will perform twice this month out-of-doors.

The Studio Park “Listening Lawn”. (Supplied)

In what the ballet is calling its “Summer Series”, it will perform “under the evening skies” at two outdoor venues, the Listening Lawn at Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Aug. 14, and at the amphitheater at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park on Aug. 31.

“We are filled with gratitude that Grand Rapids Ballet is returning to live performances after more than a year away from the stage,” Sofranko said to WKTV this week, “To have the full company back in rehearsals in the studio is such a welcome sight, and our first performance back will no doubt be an emotional one.”

That first performance, at Studio Park, is expected to include on its program “Sweet By and By” and “Calling Forth”, both choreographed by Sofranko, with the latter featuring violinist Gene Hahn. Other works include “Brothers”, choreographed by Jennifer Archibald; “The Old Child” by Danielle Rowe; “Give Me” by Penny Saunders; and a preview of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Christopher Stowell (and set for full performance in April 2022).

Company dancer Gretchen Steimle, after a rehearsal this week, probably spoke for her fellow dancers as she echoed Sofranko about the “emotional” return to live audiences.

Grand Rapids Ballet company in rehearsal on Aug. 3. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“We are so excited to get back to live performances, this year has been so difficult for artists who typically perform live,” Steimle said to WKTV. “We’ve had to pivot to do these virtual (performances) … but there is nothing that can replace that shared moment of art … live with an audience. And I know that the dancers have been waiting all year to be able to share what we love to do with our audiences again.”

At both Studio Park and Meijer Gardens, there will some artistic adapting to performing outside, with or without a true stage, in often uncontrollable circumstances. But at least in one aspect, in Steimle’s opinion, there is a joyful advantage to being outside — seeing the audience. (See the video above for her discussion of performing outside.)

As far as the planning for the Summer Series, and using the outside venues, Sofranko said it is all about adapting to audiences and challenging the artistic expression that is dance.

James Sofranko, Grand Rapids Ballet artistic director. (GR Ballet)

“I am always looking for new ways to present the art of ballet to our community and the outdoor venues at Studio Park and FMG offer a unique opportunity to experience the depth and artistry of the Grand Rapids Ballet dancers,” Sofranko said.

The programs also will feature guest artists, including Hahn, associate concertmaster at the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra, at Studio Park; and Chisako Oga — an acclaimed soloist at Boston Ballet — at the Meijer Gardens performance.

The Meijer Gardens program is expected to include Archibald’s “Brothers”,  “The Old Child” by Danielle Rowe, “Cold Virtues” by Adam Hougland, “Romeo and Juliet Fantasy”, and “Don Quixote” Pas De Deux with guest Oga. “Cold Virtues” will also feature the mesmerizing music of Philip Glass.

The Studio Park program on Aug. 14 will begin at 7 p.m., with general admission tickets available for $25 through Studio Park. The second program features a return to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, on Aug. 31, also at 7 p.m., as part of the Garden’s Tuesday Evening Music Club series, free for Meijer Gardens members and included in general admission for other guests.

The 2021-22 Season will feature classical ballet favorites, including The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and explores new favorites with contemporary works such as Off the Canvas and Jumpstart 2022.

And having learned from its season of virtual performances, and community feedback, the Grand Rapids Ballet is also is set to begin offering a “virtual season” subscription for those who wish to see the GR Ballet dancers “differently” or are unable to join in person. Additional program details and performance dates and times can be found at grballet.com/2122season. Season subscriptions are now available for the 2021-22 season starting at $139. Individual tickets will go on sale this fall.

After Dream Flight, local WW2 veteran pilot looks back with detail, humor on first airplane

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Gil Romeyn, a World War II veteran pilot and current resident of Kentwood’s Breton Woods of Holland Home, talks to WKTV after a Dream Fight. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Gil Romeyn, a World War II veteran pilot and current resident of Kentwood’s Breton Woods of Holland Home, remembers in great detail his training to fly with the Army Air Corps in 1942. And he also remembers his first airplane with a bit of humor.

Romeyn was one of nine veterans from the local independent living facility who were treated to a flight in a restored 1940 Boeing Stearman biplane Aug. 6 as part of a Dream Flight event at the Sparta airport offered the non-profit Dream Flights program and Breton Woods of Holland Home.

A 1940 Boeing Stearman biplane in flight, at right, from another day of Dream Flights. (Supplied)

“That’s the type of plane I learned to fly in the United States Army Air Corps in World War II,” Romeyn, who served in the precursor of the U.S. Air Force from 1941-45, said to WKTV after his flight. “We started with that aircraft (the Stearman), then went to basic flight training — that’s the (Vultee) BT-13.

“Then we went to advanced, that’s an (Beechcraft) AT-10, a multi-engine (aircraft),” he said, going into great detail. “Then I went to a (Douglas) C-47 transport plane —  that’s where I flew in the war zone. North Africa, Italy.”

And while the flight “brought back pleasant memories,” Romeyn said, he also found a little humor in his being in the back in the cockpit — how low he sat in the seat this time. (For a video of Romeyn detailing why he sat lower, and why it was humorous, see video above and here.)

The restored WWII-era biplane stop is part of Operation September Freedom, a barnstorming event led by nonprofit Dream Flights.

 

Dream Flights pilot Marcus Smith, left, with veteran Martin Sharda, after a flight on restored 1940 Boeing Stearman biplane. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The Holland Home veterans are among the 100,000 members of the “Greatest Generation” — World War II veterans — still alive today, according to supplied material. They are also among the 1,000 or so WWII veterans located in more than 300 US cities that will be honored during Dream Flights’ 61-day tour that began Aug. 1.

According to supplied material, when Dream Flights was told that Holland Home has 11 WWII veterans, the organization said they have never had so many veterans participate from a single senior living community. The oldest veteran participating in 98 and the youngest is 95.

Holland Home bused the veterans, as well as spouses and other veteran residents to the airport, and families and friends are also invited to attend. In addition to the flights, there was also a noontime ceremony with a color guard, national anthem and lunch served.

History in the air

Flying the Stearman out of Paul Miller Airport in Sparta for each of the about 30-minute Dream Flights was pilot Marcus Smith, who works for Dream Flights, out of Carson City, Nevada.

Dream Flights pilot Marcus Smith. (WKTV)

“It was a World War II trainer. … It was the original primary trainer, the first airplane that they flew,” Smith said to WKTV in between flights. “If they did not solo with the airplane within eight to 10 hours of flight time, they were washed out of the program. From there, they went into advanced training, after that they went into either bombers or fighters.”

And the history of this specific restored aircraft?

“This specific airplane was used by the U.S. Army Air Corps for training pilots. Then afterwards it as sold for surplus and in 1946 it was bought by the president of our foundation’s grandfather,” Smith said. “So this specific airplane has been in the family ever since. From then on, it was a crop duster — they put metal wings on it, they put 600 horsepower on it, and they dusted crops in Washington state for a long time. And then after that, it was restored to its original condition and now it is on the road with us fulfilling our mission.”

According to Dream Flights official webpage, the mission of the organization is “honoring military veterans and seniors with the adventure of a lifetime: a flight in a Boeing Stearman biplane.

“As we make these heroes wishes come true, our Dream Flights inspire them to share their stories. We collect, preserve and share those stories of how they survived through times of great strife to remind us of our shared humanity, our connection to each other and the value of listening. Our Dream Flights close the generation gap and open us up to a clearer understanding of ourselves and our world.”

For more information on Dream Flights, visit dreamflights.org.

In Kentwood, shared goals bring churches and police department together on National Night Out

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  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood’s National Night Out community celebration this week had police and other city personal at more than 15 locations throughout the city, but events at three local churches clearly showed a shared desire to engage the community after a long period of pandemic distancing.

On the evening of Aug. 3, at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue — which along with Faith Baptist Church and Pentecostals Church on 44th Street hosted special large scale events — Kentwood Police Chief Richard Roberts and Ada Bible pastor Jason Ross talked to WKTV about their shared focus on the community.

Kentwood police Chief Richard Roberts and Ada Bible Church Pastor Jason Ross, at the church’s National Night Out event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“What we share, is we desire to connect with the community in a positive way,” pastor Ross said. “We can do that as a church. We can also do that with the people, within Ada Bible Church, as well as in the community. … We want you to feel like you are welcome here.”

Pastor Ross also talked about his and his church’s appreciation of the Kentwood Police Department. (See a WKTV video here for an expanded discussion.)

Chief Roberts also talked about the shared focus and the great opportunity of interacting with the community at local churches.

“We are privileged to be invited to Ada Bible Church … This just gives us a great opportunity, especially given this past year, for us to all come out and celebrate in a special way on National Night Out,” Chief Roberts said.

(For an expanded discussion with Chief Roberts, see a WKTV video here.)

McGruff and a future Detroit Lions fan had a moment at Woodland Mall. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The City of Kentwood was truly bustling with block parties, neighborhood events and other activities — including a special presence at Woodland Mall — on National Night Out, a nationwide annual event that “promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer.”

Kentwood police officers, firefighters and city leaders joined residents, who had the opportunity to explore police cruisers, fire engines and other emergency response vehicles at events, as well as learn about a variety of safety topics.

“Positive interactions with residents are invaluable for fostering strong community relationships and safer neighborhoods,” Chief Roberts previously said in supplied material. “National Night Out creates a wonderful opportunity to bring officers and community members together in a fun and relaxing setting. Members of our department always look forward to getting to know residents better and encourage more open lines of communication.”

National Night Out was created in the 1980s through an established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention associations and volunteers across the nation. It began with a goal to promote safer, better neighborhoods by uniting community members and police against neighborhood crimes.

 

Kentwood votes: Tyson, VanderMolen to runoff, complete candidate field set for November

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The City of Kentwood ‘s city complex. (City of Kentwood)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

City of Kentwood incumbent Ward 2 commissioner Tom McKelvey finished third in a three-candidate primary election Tuesday, Aug. 3, with Jessica Ann Tyson leading the vote — but not enough to avoid a runoff — and Dan VanderMolen coming in second.

With 100 percent of City of Kentwood’s seven Ward 2 precincts counted, Tyson gained 986 votes, VanderMolen 711 and McKelvey 576, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. Tyson’s total was not 50 percent plus 1 of the votes, which would have given her the Ward 2 seat outright.

Of the 19,867 registered voters in Ward 2, only 2,301 voters cast a ballot, or 11.58 percent, according to the county elections office.

“I am honored and humbled that Kentwood residents took the time to vote for me. To others who supported our campaign, I am thankful that you understand how passionate I am about my community,” Tyson, an owner of three local businesses, said to WKTV.

“Everyone is talking about ‘diversity’. Sad it has become a buzz word made popular to tingle ears to sound more WOKE. With more than 51,000 residents and over 80 different languages spoken, Kentwood is a beautiful melting pot. The people who live, work and play in Kentwood need an authenticity diverse representative who is already involved in the community.”

VanderMolen, who is a project coordinator for First Steps Kent, praised both McKelvey and Tyson as he looked forward to November.

“I want to thank everyone who turned out tonight in support of my unique vision for Kentwood,” VanderMolen said to WKTV. “I also want to thank Tom McKelvey for his dedication and service to the city these past four years, and Jessica Ann Tyson for the experience she’s brought to the campaign.

“The three of us might not agree on everything from a policy standpoint, but we all share a love for our community and desire to help Kentwood thrive. I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to continue having a productive, issues-focused conversation with the people of Kentwood over the next three months as we build towards the future together.”

Tyson also commented on the low voter turn out.

“With low voter turn out, it is apparent the community has voter fatigue and is tired of politics,” Tyson said to WKTV. “This is a nonpartisan race. It is directly about the residents of Kentwood.  There is way too much at stake for our future, so we must not be weary now.”

Mayoral race tops ballot at November field is set

Mayor Stephen Kepley was out and about on Tuesday, primary election night — at Kentwood National Night Out events. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

In addition to the City of Kentwood Ward 2 runoff election set for the Nov. 2 non-partisan Kentwood ballot, city voters will also pick a mayor, two other council members, as well as vote on the city clerk and city treasurer positions.

Incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley is being challenged by current City Commissioner Emily Bridson, incumbent Commissioner-At Large Betsy Artz is challenged by Leonica Riley Erwin, and two candidates will look to fill the Ward 4 seat vacated by Bridson, Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson.

Running uncontested in the City of Kentwood elections is incumbent Treasurer Laurie Sheldon, and, now, incumbent City Clerk Dan Kasunic, will be unopposed as previous challenger Taylor VanderLaan is no longer on the ballot.

Mayoral candidate, and current Kentwood Commissioner, Emily Bridson was also out and about on National Night Out. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms. 

WKTV’s We The People available to candidates

As always, WKTV Community Media’s election season candidate coverage will include our We The People candidate videos. We The People gives all candidates the opportunity to record up-to-5-minute videos using their own scripts and unedited by WKTV.

For the November election all candidates (including unopposed candidates) will be invited to record videos in September for run and posting in early October.

 

WKTV Voices: 9/11 at 20: Local kid, college student, patient defender of Islam; the many roles of a young Muslim man

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Loie Ghannam, In Focus. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Continuing WKTV Journal’s series “WKTV Voices: 9/11 at 20 — Our Islamic neighbors 20 years later”, Loie Ghannam was born locally and is a Grand Valley State University student studying supply chain management and non-profit administration. His family is of Palestinian heritage and his parents immigrated to American 25 years ago.

He, however, was born and raised in Grand Rapids — “My Palestinian heritage, very proud of my Palestinian heritage … (but) I really have known nothing but Grand Rapids,” Ghannam said to WKTV.

And all his life, it seems, he has needed to defend his religion and his heritage, and dispel the misguided perception of some that being Muslim is somehow akin to being a terrorist. But it has not always been easy.
 

“I was a baby when 9/11 happened,” Ghannam said. “It was something that really set the stage for Muslims, not just in the United States but, I guess, in the West. What I’ve been told, my whole life, is that because of this you are going to be put in certain situations that might be a little difficult. You are going to be, sometimes, confronted in public. You are going to have questions asked that might not be comfortable.

“It has always been ‘This (9/11) happened, but always make sure you distance yourself from it.’ And that is simply because it got to a point where, for the lack of a better term, your safety depended on it.”

Ghannam, however, says as he has grown he often welcomed the opportunity to discuss Islam, his heritage and why 9/11 must not define an entire religion. (See the video clip above.)

For the complete WKTV Voices: 9/11 at 20 interview, including Ghannam’s view of the historic and continuing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, visit WKTVvideos on YouTube.

 

Loie Ghannam, on set at WKTV Journal In Focus. (WKTV)

This special WKTV Voices project presents video interviews, and online/print stories, covering a range of personal stories of the 9/11 attacks and their impact over the following two decades. Following previous background interviews dealing with American Islamic history, global politics, and the current Islamic world, WKTV has presented the voices of Muslim community leaders and, most importantly, local Muslim American citizens, especially young people who grew up in the age of 9/11.

WKTV Journal’s “Voices: 9/11 at 20 — Our Islamic neighbors 20 years later” airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (For dates and times on Channel 26, see our Weekly On-air Schedule. For dates and times on Channel 99, visit here). All individual interviews are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos. Online/print stories are available by searching “9/11 at 20” on WKTVJournal.org. You can also search Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the Hashtag #voices9/11at20.